Interoceanic ear moth facts for kids

The Amphipoea interoceanica is a type of moth known by several common names. You might hear it called the interoceanic ear moth, the strawberry cutworm moth, or simply the strawberry cutworm. This interesting insect belongs to the Noctuidae family, which includes many kinds of moths. It was first officially described by a scientist named Smith in 1899.

About the Interoceanic Ear Moth

The interoceanic ear moth is a medium-sized moth. Its wingspan usually measures between 28 and 35 millimeters. That's about the length of two small paperclips! These moths have colors that help them blend in with their surroundings. This makes them harder for predators to spot.

Where This Moth Lives

You can find the Amphipoea interoceanica across a large part of North America. In the United States, it lives from the Atlantic coast all the way to the Pacific coast. In Canada, it is found in provinces from Quebec in the east to Alberta in the west. It also lives in Nova Scotia. However, it is not typically found in the other coastal provinces of Canada.

What the Larvae Eat

The young stage of the moth is called a larva or caterpillar. These caterpillars are sometimes called "cutworms" because of how they feed. They like to eat different parts of plants. Their favorite foods include the leaves, stems, and fruit stalks of strawberry plants. They also munch on various types of grasses and sedges.

Life Cycle of the Moth

Like all moths, the interoceanic ear moth goes through a life cycle with different stages. The adult moths are usually active during the warmer months. You can often see them flying around from July to August. The exact time they appear depends on where they live. For example, moths in a warmer southern area might emerge earlier than those in a cooler northern region.